"Now," said I, "I was betrothed long ago--the war time has come between me and her who should have been my wife. I have hunted for her and cannot find her--and that is all. Now you understand. It was Sexberga who cheered me in my search, and so I spoke to her thereof."
"I should not have doubted you," he said frankly; "forgive me."
I held out my hand and he took it. There was nought but friendliness in his grasp, and I could not blame him. I blamed Sexberga wholly.
Then he laughed a little ruefully.
"I am a fool with a sword," he said. "Will you teach me somewhat? I think I was mad when I used those evil words to you."
"I have forgotten them," I answered; and so I had. One does not think much of what a man says in utmost rage as his. "Come, let us go back to the village."
So we went back together, but Sexberga had gone on her way homeward without us. Whereat Eldred was not sorry, and said that he was going back to his own place.
"You will see me no more for a few days," he said. "I think your plan is good."
"Mind this," I answered, "I never tried it."
"Lookers-on see best," he answered, laughing bitterly. "But think no more of my anger with yourself, I pray you."